Kensett IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kensett, Iowa.
1. Top of Iowa Welcome Center and Rest Area
VISITOR GATEWAY EXPERIENCE
The Top of Iowa Welcome Center and Rest Area serves as a gateway for travelers entering northern Iowa, offering a comfortable place to rest. The center features Iowa-made products, local information, and exhibits about the region's history and attractions. Its welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff make it a favorite stop for those exploring Kensett and nearby communities.
2. Fort Severson
HISTORIC FRONTIER SITE
Fort Severson is a historical site near Kensett, offering insight into northern Iowa's pioneer past. Visitors can explore remnants of the fort and read interpretive signage about its strategic importance during early settlement days. It's a quiet but educational stop for history enthusiasts visiting Kensett.
3. Lime Creek Nature Center
NATURE AND HIKING HUB
Lime Creek Nature Center, located near Kensett in Mason City, is known for its diverse natural habitats and extensive trails. The center provides educational displays, wildlife observation opportunities, and programs that highlight local ecology. It's a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and learning about northern Iowa's environment.
4. Plane Crash Site of Buddy Holly
MUSIC HISTORY MEMORIAL
The Plane Crash Site of Buddy Holly marks the location where the iconic musician, along with Richie Valens and The Big Bopper, tragically died in 1959. The site, located near Clear Lake and accessible from Kensett, is visited by music fans and historians. A simple memorial and markers pay tribute to 'the day the music died.'
5. Bolan Schoolhouse & Cultural Center
RESTORED HISTORIC SCHOOLHOUSE
The Bolan Schoolhouse & Cultural Center is a restored one-room school that now serves as a community cultural venue. Visitors can tour the building, examine artifacts, and attend periodic local events. It offers a window into rural Iowa's educational heritage just a short drive from Kensett.
6. Pioneer Town & Country Club
RECREATION AND EVENTS VENUE
Pioneer Town & Country Club provides recreational space and facilities for local gatherings outside Kensett. The club is known for its golf and social events, drawing both residents and visitors. It is a hub for community activities in Worth County's rural setting.
7. Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway
SCENIC HISTORIC DRIVE
The Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway winds through Worth County, including the area around Kensett, offering scenic drives with historic significance. Interpretive signs along the route describe its early 20th-century roots as a cross-country auto trail. The byway connects towns and landscapes, ideal for leisurely exploration.
8. Northwood-Kensett Community School
LOCAL EDUCATION LANDMARK
Northwood-Kensett Community School serves as an educational and community anchor for families in Kensett and the surrounding area. The school often hosts athletics, arts, and local events that bring residents together. Its campus is an important center for the town's younger residents and families.
9. Bee Happy Farms
LOCAL AGRITOURISM EXPERIENCE
Bee Happy Farms, located near Kensett in Manly, offers visitors a chance to learn about beekeeping and local agriculture. The farm provides tours, honey tastings, and educational programs for all ages. It's a sweet spot for families and anyone interested in sustainable farming.
10. Worth County Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Worth County Historical Society Museum in Northwood preserves and displays artifacts and stories from throughout the county. Exhibits cover local history, including farming, education, and early settlement. The museum is a valuable stop for anyone curious about the broader Kensett region.
11. Central Gardens of North Iowa
PUBLIC BOTANICAL GARDENS
Central Gardens of North Iowa is a beautifully landscaped public garden space in nearby Clear Lake. The gardens feature themed plantings, walking paths, and regular community events in a picturesque setting. It's a peaceful retreat for those seeking natural beauty near Kensett.
12. Diamond Jo Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Diamond Jo Casino in Northwood offers a variety of gaming, dining, and live entertainment options close to Kensett. The casino is a popular destination for those seeking recreation and nightlife in Worth County. Its convenient location near the state line attracts visitors from Iowa and Minnesota.
13. Worth County Fairgrounds
ANNUAL COUNTY FAIR SITE
The Worth County Fairgrounds in Northwood is home to the county's biggest annual event, the Worth County Fair. Each summer, the fair brings together agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and community fun. The fairgrounds also host various events and gatherings throughout the year.
14. Shell Rock River Greenbelt
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
The Shell Rock River Greenbelt is a scenic natural area along the Shell Rock River, offering hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. It provides tranquil experiences in Worth County's countryside, not far from Kensett. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the peaceful trails and waterway access.
15. Manly Railroad Museum
RAILWAY HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Manly Railroad Museum preserves the railroad heritage of Worth County and the surrounding region. Exhibits feature historic locomotives, railroad artifacts, and stories of the area's railroading past. It's an engaging stop for history buffs and families interested in trains.